MORE than 450 people were diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in Scotland last year - the highest figure in recent years, according to the records.

A new register, intended to demonstrate the high incidence of the condition in Scotland, shows 451 people were told they had MS during 2013. This is up on 421 in 2010, 389 in 2011 and 437 in 2012. More than twice as many women were found to have the neurological condition, compared to men, at 72 per cent.

MS occurs when the protective layer surrounding nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord becomes damaged. Patients can suffer a wide range of symptoms including problems with muscle movement, balance and vision.

Concern has long been expressed that there are more people with MS in Scotland per capita than anywhere else in the world, but this is based on small studies. The register is beginning to establish where patients are concentrated and if services are meeting the national standards.

The latest report from the register, published yesterday, showed 83 per cent of patients diagnosed in 2013 were referred to an MS nurse specialist within two weeks of receiving a confirmed diagnosis. However, 11 per cent of people waited over six weeks before they were referred. The report says referral delays "continue to be problematic".

Becky Duff, head of policy and communications for the MS Society Scotland, said: "We welcome the MS Register report which offers further information on the number of people being diagnosed with MS in Scotland and their ability to access vital specialist services. However, we know from our research that for the 11,000 people with MS in Scotland there remains a postcode lottery in the treatments, support and services people can access. This has to stop."